A Blast From the Past

Philippians 3:13- 14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Journal Entry for November 9, 1989:

I went to a lady's luncheon today. It was very good and the speaker was excellent. She spoke on Philippians 3:12-14.

"...forgetting those things which are behind..."

1. Forget past failure
2. Confess sin to God and others and forget it
3. Forget your accomplishments (you'll bore everyone telling them how good you are!)

"...reaching forth..."

1. Reach out to others (who need Jesus)

"...press toward the mark..."

1. If I do only what I know I can do within my little sphere of comfort, where does that leave any room for faith? Get outside your comfort zone and take on some spiritual challenges.

Back to the present:

It's been fun for me to go back to some of my old journals and read what I have written. While Scripture says to forget those things which are behind, it also says, "I will remember the works of the Lord..." (Psalm 77:11) I am finding much encouragement in my old journals as I read notes like the one above. I am also challenged to get back to journaling my Quiet Times with God like I used to do all the time. I see in my journal from 1989 where I was struggling with a lot stuff that isn't all that much different than the struggles I deal with today and it is encouraging to me how God sustained me and strengthened me through His Word. It gives me encouragement for the present when I see His faithfulness from the past.

Dear Father, You are faithful. I see that in my journals of the past. I still struggle with getting outside my comfort zones and stepping out in faith. Give me strength and courage to do what you ask me to do even if it means leaving my comfort zone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.